Exploring the Second Generation of Computers: A Look Back at Their Evolution
Introduction
The Second Generation of computers, spanning from 1959 to 1965, was marked by the introduction of the transistor and the beginning of significant change and advancement in the computing industry. These computers were faster and more efficient than their predecessors, the first-generation computers, which used vacuum tubes for computation. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the Second Generation computers, their evolution, and their impact on modern computing.
The Transistor: A Game-Changer
The transistor was invented in 1947 by John Bardeen, Walter Brattain, and William Shockley at Bell Labs. The tiny device revolutionized the computing industry by allowing for the creation of smaller, faster, and more efficient computers.
Before the advent of transistors, computers were large, expensive, and unreliable. Vacuum tubes, which were used in the first-generation computers, were prone to overheating and would burn out frequently, causing significant downtime and repair costs for computer manufacturers.
Smaller, Faster, and Cheaper Computers
With the introduction of transistors, computers became smaller, faster, and cheaper. Transistors replaced the bulky vacuum tubes used in the first-generation computers, reducing the size of computers significantly. The first transistorized computer, the TX-0, was developed at MIT in 1956. It was significantly smaller than its predecessors and used only a fraction of the power.
Transistors also allowed for computers that were not only smaller but faster and more powerful. The IBM 7090, developed in 1959, was the first computer to use transistors extensively, making it one of the fastest machines of its time.
The Rise of High-Level Programming Languages
The Second Generation of computers also saw the rise of high-level programming languages. These languages made it easier to write and understand code and were more efficient than the binary code used in the first-generation computers. COBOL and FORTRAN were two such languages that were widely adopted during this era.
These programming languages allowed programmers to write more complex code, making it possible to solve more complicated problems. They also enabled the automation of business processes and led to the creation of new types of applications, such as financial modeling.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Second Generation of computers marked a significant shift in the computing industry. The introduction of transistors revolutionized the industry, making computers smaller, faster, and more reliable. The rise of high-level programming languages allowed for more complex applications and made it easier for non-technical people to understand programming. The Second Generation of computers set the stage for the advancement of technology that we see today.
